Hiroshima Big Arch

Lore & Background

Hiroshima Big Arch opened in 1992, as the venue of the 1992 AFC Asian Cup. The host nation Japan won the Asian Cup title for the first time, after defeating the defending champion Saudi Arabia 1–0 in the final at this stadium. The stadium hosted the 1994 Asian Games.

In Their Own Story

The rain fell in sheets, but the arch glowed under the floodlights, its steel frame dripping like a giant's eyelash. A young fan clutched a Sanfrecce scarf, watching the Japan National Team warm up—steam rising from their shoulders. The stadium hummed with anticipation—a World Cup qualifier, the air thick with hope and the scent of wet grass. As the national anthem played, the crowd rose as one, their voices merging with the drumbeat, a single heartbeat under the storm. The arch seemed to lean forward, urging the players on, as if the city itself was bending toward victory. That night, history was written in the rain, and the Big Arch stood witness, its lights cutting through the downpour like a promise.

Reader's Guide

The stadium is accessible via train services, with the Kōiki-kōen-mae Station on the Astram Line located only 5 minutes' walk from the stadium.

Did You Know?

• The stadium opened in 1992 for the AFC Asian Cup.
• Japan won its first Asian Cup title at this stadium in 1992.
• The stadium hosted the 1994 Asian Games.
• It has a capacity of 50,000 and is an all-seater.